Most homeowners look at their monthly mortgage payment as their largest cost per month, and something they must do to maintain a good credit history. However, you may have heard of bi-weekly mortgage payments and their ability to lower your debt load and help you pay off your mortgage more quickly. If you’re wondering if bi-weekly payments are too good to be true, here’s some information worth consideration.
What Difference Does Bi-Weekly Make?
Making a bi-weekly mortgage payment may seem to mean that your interest will be automatically reduced, but because the lender is not necessarily receiving that payment until the end of the month, this is not necessarily the case. However, while a typical monthly payment will equate to 12 mortgage payments per year, a bi-weekly payment means 26 half payments will be made each year, which equates to 13 months of payments and an additional month. As a result, this can reduce the amount of interest paid on the principal.
Consider More On A Monthly Basis
Bi-weekly payments have the ability to shave a bit off the principal and thereby lower overall interest, but that doesn’t mean you have to switch to paying every two weeks. Instead of bi-weekly, consider dividing your monthly mortgage amount by 12 and adding that amount to your monthly payment. This will bump up your mortgage cost per month, but it will also reduce the total amount you owe. For example, if your mortgage payment is $1200 per month, divide it by 12 to get $100, and add this to your payment, bumping it up to $1300 each month.
Be Aware Of The Options That Work For You
In the event that you decide to make bi-weekly payments, be aware that there may actually be additional fees associated with this offering that will nullify your money savings. As a homeowner, it’s important to stay aware of changes on the market and new mortgage offerings that can benefit you. However, it’s also important to ensure that whatever you choose, you’re aware of the risks involved so they can make for a positive financial shift.
Making a bi-weekly payment on your mortgage may have the benefit of lowering your overall home cost, but you may be able to get this benefit from simply bumping up your monthly payment.
For more tips on reducing your mortgage debt, give me a call – J.P. Cook – 602-320-4253.
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5135 W Alameda Road
Glendale, AZ 85310
$1,295,000
5
Beds
3
Baths
3,749
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6749254
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Bring your toys! Stunning Tri-Level Home in Saddleback Estates on just under an acre with additional 3000sqft Garage & Fully owned 150kwh Solar System providing close to zero energy costs! Inside you will discover 5 bedrooms, 3 baths 2 living areas, formal dining and an extra flex room. Home features tile & wood flooring throughout, granite counters and cherry cabs in the kitchen, & a large master with private balcony equipped with a hot tub. Outside enjoy a covered patio overlooking a beautifully landscaped yard and sparkling pool that also is equipped with heater and chiller. The massive garage/workshop is equipped with A/C, heat, 3-phase electric, and R40 insulation in the walls and R55 in the roof. On top of having tons of character & storage this home is located near golfing, hiking water parks, plenty of dining options at the shops at Norterra and great schools like Sandra Day O'Connor. Only a short drive to both 101 and I-17 freeways. Check out additional upgrades attached in document section.
10 S Woodridge Way
Prescott, AZ 86303
$1,295,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,519
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6706956
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This high quality custom built home in the Ranch at Prescott is situated on a large corner lot. The neutral warm tones will be a perfect backdrop for anyone's personal decor. The single story residence has tall ceilings and tons of natural light. The open concept and split floor plan with a separate Office (4th Bedroom), Laundry Room, large Walk in Pantry and spacious 3 Car Garage will certainly ''check'' all of the ''boxes''. There are so many great focal points from the Fireplace in the Great Room to the generous Island and floor to ceiling Cabinetry in the Kitchen. The large Main Suite has a sitting area and fireplace with amazing views of the outdoors. The Walk in Closet and Main Suite Bath with a separate Tub and Shower is light and bright. Engineered Veneer Wood Floors everywhere exc Main Suite Closet which has plush carpeting. Bosch Appliances with a gas cooktop, Zephyr Wine Fridge and Quartz Countertops are featured in the Kitchen. Extensive covered outdoor Patio for entertaining or just sit and quietly enjoy the deer and other forest creatures that will wonder by. Entire home has a Fire Suppression System (fire sprinklers). This is a fantastic walkable location to Trader Joe's, Pine Ridge Marketplace, and Restaurants. The community of Ranch at Prescott has a Tennis Court and walking trails. There is a community Social Club that can be joined for a small annual fee and is not a requirement - just a way for members of the community to plan events together. Property Taxes are currently based on Land Value only.
3044 N Ironwood Road
Carefree, AZ 85377
$1,295,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
2,948
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6774944
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
SPECTACULAR BOULDERS PROPERTY REDONE TO PERFECTION. THIS 3 BEDROOM WITH 3.5 BATHROOMS IS REMODELED FROM ONLY THE BEST MATERIALS WOOD FLOORING,2 MASTER BATHROOMS WITH FANTASTIC MARBLE FINISHES BTFL KITCHEN WITH GRANITE FINISHES AND DECOR 6 BURNER GAS RANGE AND DECOR OVEN...FROM THE MOMENT YOU STEP OUT TO THE YARD WITH IMPRESSIVE BOULDERS GROUPINGS AND PLANTINGS AND FABULOUS POOL/SPA THAT IS PERFECT FOR PRIVACY AND PEACE AT THE END OF THE DAY.
9144 E Pershing Avenue
Scottsdale, AZ 85260
$1,295,000
4
Beds
2.5
Baths
2,969
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6737562
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
NEW PRICE !!! Wow! Remodeled in the last 2 - 4 years! 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, Very open floor plan with living room/formal dining room combination. Light and bright Island kitchen with stainless steel appliances, eat in breakfast nook & Quartz countertops opens onto the family room with a fireplace and Soaring ceilings! Downstairs master bedroom!!! 3 bedrooms and a huge loft upstairs! Luxury vinyl planking throughout the entire home! Sparkling fenced play pool and side yard hosts a putting green . Anderson windows, solar panels , refrigerator, washer & dryer included and more! You gotta see this one! Professional photos coming ! Move right in!
3014 E Winchcomb Drive
Phoenix, AZ 85032
$1,294,900
4
Beds
3
Baths
3,272
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6742731
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A rare opportunity in the Cimarron Manor community. this beautifully appointed custom home with No HOA on over a 1/4 acre lot, and close to Scottsdale, 51 & 101 Freeways, Camelback Corridor, Downtown Phoenix, Central Corridor, and minutes to the airport. 4 bedroom 3 bath home. In 2022 replaced roof, solar panel system, remodeled pool, pool heater, repainted, new flooring, putting green, exterior paint., and LG Fridge. There is an 80 gallon water heater, soft water & filtration system. In primary bedroom, there is a gorgeous walk in closet, Steam Shower, and Toto Toilet. Full wet Bar. Backyard and a sizeable grassy lawn, and does the front yard. Plenty of space to entertain both inside and out. You do not want to miss this one. Can sell as fully furnished as well.
3756 E Galvin Street
Cave Creek, AZ 85331
$1,294,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,861
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6673322
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Magnificent mountain views, high ceilings and tasteful finishes greet you upon entering this meticulously maintained and very spacious home with north/south exposure, new interior and exterior paint and a fabulous backyard. Enjoy privacy and gorgeous sunsets. Approach from a circular drive, then through a formal entry that invites you into a large comfortable great room with gas fireplace and access to the backyard. The dining area is open to the large kitchen with its cherry cabinets, granite countertops, gas cooktop and island. Relax in your master suite (20x20), large bathroom & huge closet. The office is perfect for a work from home lifestyle and has custom dual desk cabinetry. See the big bonus room for workouts, TV, toys, billiards, and the laundry room has loads of storage. The resort like backyard with travertine pavers boasts beautiful mountain views, play pool with water feature, built-in gas BBQ, gas firepit and new artificial grass! Owned Solar is the icing on the cake!
27722 E Mount Ord Drive
Fort Mcdowell, AZ 85264
$1,290,000
3
Beds
2.5
Baths
3,083
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6707788
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this stunning southwestern home in Sunflower, AZ, offering the perfect blend of comfort & luxury. Nestled in a private gated community, this property boasts breathtaking mountain views and enjoys the great climate of Sunflower. This home features 3 bedrooms, 2.5 bathrooms, a bonus room, providing ample space for relaxation. The open-concept living area is perfect for hosting gatherings, while the wellappointed kitchen, complete with modern appliances and a spacious island. Two additional improved lots are available. Outside the property spans 1.82 acres. Solar Electrical System, Community well, whole home off grid.
1109 N Falconcrest Drive
Payson, AZ 85541
$1,290,000
4
Beds
4.5
Baths
4,300
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6752125
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
A panoramic view of the Mogollon Rim invites you into this 4,300 sq. ft 3 story home near the Payson airport. In addition to the main house, is a separate oversized garage with a 700 sq ft 1 bedroom apartment on the second level Entry to the main house is on the mid level along wit the living room, dining, kitchen, bedroom, bath, utility room, pantry and wrap around deck. On the upper level is the master bedroom with fireplace and walk in closet , master bath with jetted tub, shower, toilet room, dual sinks and closets. Office w 2 desks, a 2nd bedroom, bath, laundry and hobby room and deck are also on this level. Located on the lower level is the Rec room with pool table, 4th bath, storage room and garage. Inviting as a permanent home or a family gathering place..... This one of a kind property includes an elevator in the main house and a tiny house nestled in the trees below, RV parking with full hook up and sits on a 1.7 acre lot. Property may be purchase fully furnished.
3768 E Aspen Court
Gilbert, AZ 85234
$1,290,000
6
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,734
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6772694
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to this charming CUSTOM, BASEMENT home in the highly coveted Circle G at the Highlands neighborhood of Gilbert, AZ! Situated on a cul-de-sac setting, nearly 1/2-ACRE LOT, this beautiful property offers 6 beds/3.5 baths + Office + expansive Bonus Room in the basement, perfect for families seeking space and comfort. The property also features a 3-car garage, RV gate for the toys, mature landscaping & welcoming porch. Discover an ample foyer that greets you with NEWLY installed wood floors throughout the home that are warm and inviting. The thoughtfully designed layout includes a finished basement with 2 additional bedrooms, a bathroom, huge storage room and a spacious living area w/ surround sound speakers, which is perfect for a media room providing additional living and entertainment space for your family or guests. On the main level, the gorgeous family room offers a wood-burning fireplace & vaulted ceiling! The gourmet kitchen, complete with granite counters, custom tile backsplash, plenty of white cabinetry, breakfast bar and a sunny bay window in the breakfast nook flows into an inviting living area, ideal for gatherings. Check out the NEWLY remodeled, giant walk-in pantry w/ tons of cabinetry, shelving, quartz counters, beverage cooler & more. Retreat to the main suite to find private backyard access & an ensuite w/dual sinks, separate tub/shower & walk-in closet. Oasis backyard w/ ample space for outdoor activities highlighted by a sparkling pool w/ built-in spa, boulder waterfall/slide, diving board, a concrete play area, firepit, large grass area & extended covered patio w/ a plethora of travertine decking. Also enjoy a harvest of your own fresh citrus with orange, lemon and pink grapefruit trees. Whether you're entertaining guests or relaxing in the sun, this outdoor oasis is perfect for Arizona living. Located in the prestigious Circle G community, known for its large lots and tranquil surroundings, you'll enjoy the perfect balance of luxury and privacy while still being close to Gilbert's top schools, shopping, and dining. Don't miss the chance to own this stunning custom home! ADDITIONAL RECENT UPDATES: -
17662 E Blaze Lane
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$1,290,000
3
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,004
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6782079
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Welcome to your desert oasis in the heart of Trilogy at Verde River! This stunning 3-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom home is a true gem, boasting the popular Orion floor plan that's perfect for both relaxation and entertainment. As you step inside, you'll be greeted by neutral porcelain tile that flows seamlessly throughout the home, creating a cool and inviting atmosphere. Perched on a corner lot, this property offers mountain views, providing a picturesque backdrop for your daily life. The chef's kitchen is a culinary enthusiast's dream, featuring a huge center island and an abundance of cabinets with convenient pull-out drawers. Whip up gourmet meals while your guests mingle in the open-concept living area, or take the party outside to the built-in BBQ on the generous covered patio. The primary bedroom suite is a true retreat, complete with a luxurious soaking tub and a spacious walk-in closet. A den/office provides the perfect space for remote work or quiet study, while the bonus/media room offers endless possibilities for entertainment or relaxation. Practical amenities abound, including a utility sink in the laundry room, reverse osmosis system, and water softener. Located in the beautiful resort-style community of Trilogy at Verde River, you'll have access to world-class amenities and the nearby Vista Verde Golf Club. Don't miss this opportunity to live in a home that combines luxury, functionality, and stunning natural beauty. Your desert dream home awaits! Trilogy at Verde River is a Resort Style community featuring something for everyone! Tom Lehman designed golf course, tennis, pickle ball, bocce ball, heated lap pool and swimming pool, hot tub, fitness center, demonstration kitchen and a 7.5 acre dog park. The community center has casual and fine dining, luxury spa and an events center. Trilogy at Verde River is adjacent to the Tonto National Forest and is situated in the middle of miles and miles of hiking and biking trails yet close to the conveniences of affluent North Scottsdale. Live like you're on vacation!!
15724 E Sunflower Drive
Fountain Hills, AZ 85268
$1,290,000
3
Beds
3
Baths
3,430
SqFt
Status
Active Under Contract
MLS #
6760227
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
This is the home of your dreams! Custom built sitting on an elevated lot w/gorgeous 4 peaks views!! Single level living w/just a bonus room on lower level! Huge RV garage will hold a 36ft RV/Enter through stunning iron door into a wide open great room! Your eyes will take your right outside to the view, but don't miss the wonderful great room/formal dining/music room/sitting area & of course the kitchen!! Tons of custom cabinets/beautiful granite counters/huge island w/seating/Stainless appliances/ Breakfast rm overlooking the East mountains! Enjoy stunning sunrises from the covered patio off great rm/Bedrooms are split for ultimate privacy/Spacious master retreat/Master bath offers newer walk in shower/slipper tub/double vanity & lg walk in closet/2nd master is perfect for guests/More... Newer flooring throughout/ New windows on the East side of the house / 80% Sunscreens /Energy efficient due to the Solar - owned by seller and part of SRP's Customer Generation plan. Mini splits in garage and bonus room HVAC new in 2018 & 2023. New Water heater in 2023.
17518 E Whitethorn Drive
Rio Verde, AZ 85263
$1,290,000
4
Beds
3.5
Baths
3,651
SqFt
Status
Active
MLS #
6735190
Property Type
Single Family Residence
Price Type
--
Nestled on a peaceful road among breathtaking mountain vistas, this home offers unparalleled resort-style living in serene Rio Verde. A thoughtfully designed split floor plan allows for privacy with the primary bedroom split to one wing, away from the other 2 bedrooms in the main house. An attached 1bed/1bath casita is accessible from the back patio. Entertain effortlessly in the great room with a cozy fireplace, a huge built-in entertainment center, a sophisticated built-in bar, and game room with space for a pool table. Adjacent is the chef's kitchen with a large island, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, and a walk-in pantry. Versailles pattern travertine & engineered wood floors as well as other beautiful finishes throughout the home. The deluxe master has an oversized bath suite with an adjoining room that can be used as an office, workout space, or an extra closet. Stunning views of the Tonto National Forest serve as a picturesque backdrop while you're relaxing in the sparkling pool or in the new above ground hot tub among beautiful landscaping and wide-open skies. Additional upgrades in addition to the new hot tub include 2 new A/C units in 2022, an RV Hookup with it's own separate breaker, and an extensive critter fence installed around the perimeter. Don't miss this invitation to luxurious living here in Rio Verde!